Bench at Housatonic Community College, in Bridgeport, CT.                                   Photo by Katelyn Avery.

Free yourself from stress by taking a moment to relax. A much deserved rest is in your deck of cards. Calm your frazzled head by letting go of those racing thoughts.

It’s not lazy to sit down, as long as you don’t make the bench your permanent home. It’s more of a hotel room for the overworked heart. The racing one that is taking too many steps forward. You’re supposed to look around every now and then.

Put yourself into vacation mode, even if you still are in your home town. Your living room provides you with an escape. The TV’s right there, but don’t watch anything too mind numbing. Reality TV will only make you hate the world and “Me time” is a hate free zone.

Self-pity isn’t invited either, it’s supposed to be a celebration of yourself. Think of everything you’ve overcome and let your muscles loosen. No more clenching out of anxiety and worry. As you sit let your spine fall back. Whether or not you’re a math fan grab a protractor, and make an angle at 120 degrees. Don’t move now, your resting period has begun.

You may even close your eyes. A nap is acceptable, although the angle needs to be 180 degrees for it to be perfect. Don’t be too rigid about relaxation. Follow the necessary rules to make it fun, but don’t make it too structured. This special time is a gift to allow you to heal and grow stronger.

-Katelyn Avery

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